Lionsgate Sets Second Dividend Ahead of ‘Divergent’ Launch

Lionsgate has declared its second-ever cash dividend of 5 cents per common share four days ahead of its release of franchise starter “Divergent.”

The studio announced the payout would take place May 30 for shareholders of record on March 31.

The board declared the company’s first quarterly cash dividend, also for five cents per common share, in December with a February 7 payout.

Wall Street analysts have estimated “Divergent” will take in a cumulative $150 million in its domestic release. Lionsgate execs have touted the dystopian drama, starring Shailene Woodley, as the latest example of its leadership in adaptations of young-adult bestsellers following “Twilight” and “The Hunger Games.”

Lionsgate made the announcement before the stock market opened Monday. The stock declined 5%, falling $1.64 to $30.33 in trading following generally downbeat reviews on “Divergent” and poor performance by “Tyler Perry’s Single Mom’s Club.”